ScyllaDB vs Cassandra: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between ScyllaDB and Cassandra comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
ScyllaDB
High-performance NoSQL database
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • ScyllaDB is a high-performance NoSQL database compatible with Cassandra
- • It delivers 10x better throughput with consistent low latency
Cassandra
Distributed NoSQL database for massive scale
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Apache Cassandra is a distributed NoSQL database designed for massive scalability
- • It handles petabytes of data across multiple data centers with no single point of failure
| At a Glance |  ScyllaDB |  Cassandra |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Database Builders | Database Builders |
Rating | 86/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | ScyllaDB | Cassandra |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Database BuildersManaged Databases | Database BuildersManaged Databases |
How ScyllaDB and Cassandra Compare
ScyllaDB
High-performance NoSQL database
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Cassandra
Distributed NoSQL database for massive scale
Free · 82/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Cassandra is free. ScyllaDB is freemium.
Go with: Cassandra
Want the highest-rated option?
ScyllaDB: 86/100. Cassandra: 82/100.
Go with: ScyllaDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: ScyllaDB
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
ScyllaDB is freemium. Cassandra is free. Go with Cassandra if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are database builders tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
ScyllaDB scores higher: 86/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
ScyllaDB
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 82
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Cassandra
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
ScyllaDB (86/100) is our pick. That said, Cassandra is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ScyllaDB or Cassandra better?
ScyllaDB scores 86/100 in our evaluation. ScyllaDB is freemium and Cassandra is free.
What are ScyllaDB and Cassandra used for?
ScyllaDB: High-performance NoSQL database. Cassandra: Distributed NoSQL database for massive scale.
What does ScyllaDB cost vs Cassandra?
ScyllaDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Cassandra is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.